Things That Make Us Smart - (William Patrick Book) by Don Norman (Paperback)

About the Book

"In Things That Make Us Smart, Donald A. Norman explores the complex interaction between human thought and the technology it creates, arguing for the development of machines that fit our minds, rather"

Book Synopsis

An examination of the complex interaction between the human mind and the machines we think with, from the legendary author of The Design of Everyday Things

"Hilarious and harrowing."--New York Times

Humans have always worked with objects to extend our cognitive powers, from counting on our fingers to designing massive supercomputers. But advanced technology does more than merely assist with thought and memory--the machines we create begin to shape how we think and, at times, even what we value. Norman, in exploring this complex relationship between humans and machines, gives us the first steps towards demanding a person-centered redesign of the machines that surround our lives.

From the Back Cover

Humans have always worked with objects to extend our cognitive powers, from counting on our fingers to designing massive supercomputers. But advanced technology does more than merely assist with thought and memory--the machines we create begin to shape how we think and, at times, even what we value. Norman, in exploring this complex relationship between humans and machines, gives us the first steps towards demanding a person-centered redesign of the machines that surround our lives.

Review Quotes

"Hilarious and harrowing."--New York Times

"Norman knows what he's talking about. And Things Make Us Smart offers some gratifying low blows at technology and some hope that things could get better."--San Diego Union Tribune

"This book gives us the first, most important weapon citizens are going to need in the long battle ahead to reclaim control of the world from our technologies--an understanding of how humans and technologies interact at the cognitive level."--Howard Rheingold, author of The Virtual Community

About the Author

Don Norman isDistinguished Professor Emeritus of Cognitive Science and Psychology and founding director of the Design Lab at the University of California, San Diego. He was an Apple Vice President, has been an advisor and board member for numerous companies, has received three lifetime achievement awards, and has three honorary degrees. His many books, including The Design of Everyday Things and Emotional Design, have been translated into over 20 languages. He lives in San Diego, California.